Why Visit Nepal in Summer?
Lush Greenery and Fresh Air – The monsoon rains nourish the landscapes, making the valleys bloom with vibrant flora.
Festival Season – Some of Nepal’s most unique festivals, including Gai Jatra (Saparu) and the Rice Planting Festival (Asar 15), take place in summer.
Less Crowded and Authentic Experiences – Fewer tourists mean a more intimate connection with Nepal’s culture and people.
Choose the Right Destinations – While highways and mountain treks are challenging in the monsoon, Kathmandu Valley, Bhaktapur, Panauti, Dhulikhel, and Pokhara are perfect summer getaways.
Rato Machindranath Festival
One of Nepal’s most spectacular summer festivals, the Rato Machindranath Jatra in Patan is a vibrant celebration of rain, harvest, and devotion. This centuries-old chariot festival honours the rain god, Rato Machindranath, with an elaborate procession where devotees pull a towering, handcrafted chariot through the ancient streets of Lalitpur. Accompanied by music, rituals, and deep cultural significance, the festival unites communities in prayer for prosperity and good monsoons. Marked by its grandeur and spiritual fervour, it is a must-experience event, offering a glimpse into Nepal’s rich traditions and living heritage.
Saparu – The Festival of Cows (August)
Also known as Gai Jatra, Saparu is a unique Newar festival in Nepal that blends remembrance with celebration. Families who have lost loved ones in the past year take part in vibrant processions, leading decorated cows—believed to guide souls to the afterlife—or children dressed as holy animals. The streets come alive with music, dance, and satirical performances, as laughter is encouraged to ease grief and honour the cycle of life and death. Originating during the Malla era, this festival remains a cherished tradition, reflecting Nepal’s deep spiritual roots and communal resilience.
Best Places to Visit in Summer in Nepal
Unlike winter and autumn, when mountain views take centre stage, summer in Nepal is all about heritage, culture, and monsoon-fed beauty. These destinations offer the best experiences for the season.
1. Bhaktapur – Where Culture Comes Alive
Bhaktapur is a treasure trove of Newari heritage, with its well-preserved temples, ancient squares, and traditional festivals. Summer is an ideal time to visit as the city hosts Gai Jatra (Saparu), a festival that blends grief, satire, and celebration. Families who have lost loved ones in the past year parade through the streets in a lively procession, accompanied by masked dancers, musicians, and performers.Visitors can explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, admire the intricate wood carvings at the 55-Window Palace, and experience the vibrant local markets. The Nanee, a boutique property in the heart of Bhaktapur, offers an immersive cultural stay, blending traditional Newari architecture with modern luxury.
2. Panauti – The Undiscovered Heritage Town
Panauti is one of Nepal’s oldest towns, known for its well-preserved temples, cobbled streets, and traditional Newari settlements. In summer, the surrounding hills turn a lush green, making it a perfect place for walks and cultural exploration.Panauti is also home to the Sacred Indreshwar Temple Complex, one of the oldest temple sites in Nepal. The town’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its rich history, makes it an excellent destination for travellers seeking an authentic Newari experience.
3. Dhulikhel – A Tranquil Escape Near Kathmandu
Dhulikhel, located just an hour’s drive from Kathmandu, offers stunning hill views and a chance to experience rural Newari life. During the monsoon, the terraced fields around Dhulikhel turn a vivid green, providing a breathtaking landscape.
Visitors can explore ancient temples, take short hikes through scenic villages, and experience traditional Newari hospitality. The peaceful environment and fresh mountain air make it a great summer retreat.
4. Pokhara – Lakeside Beauty Amidst the Monsoon
While mountain views are not as clear in summer, Pokhara remains a wonderful destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The city’s Phewa Lake, Davis Falls, and Mahendra Cave take on a magical charm during the rains.Boating on Phewa Lake is especially serene in the monsoon, with the surrounding hills shrouded in mist. The city also serves as a base for soft adventure activities such as zip-lining and exploring the caves.
Festivals to Experience in Nepal During Summer
Nepal’s summer is alive with vibrant festivals that celebrate culture, tradition, and community spirit. From grand chariot processions to joyous agrarian rituals, these festivals offer a unique glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and lively celebrations.
- Ropai – The Rice Plantation Ceremony (End of June) - Marking the arrival of the monsoon, Ropai is a joyous festival where farmers and visitors alike celebrate rice planting with music, dance, and playful mud fights, followed by a feast of Dahi Chiura (beaten rice with curd).
- Indra Jatra – The Festival of Lingo Erection in Kathmandu (August) - A vibrant festival dedicated to Lord Indra, the god of rain, Indra Jatra features masked dances, processions, and the erection of a ceremonial lingo (wooden pole), culminating in the public appearance of the Living Goddess, Kumari.
- Krishna Janmashtami – The Birth Anniversary of Lord Krishna (August) - Celebrated with devotional songs, temple rituals, and reenactments of Krishna’s life, this festival draws thousands of devotees to Krishna Mandir in Patan, where prayers and festivities continue late into the night.
- Teej – The Festival of Fasting and Womanhood (August/September) - Celebrated by Hindu women across Nepal, Teej is a festival of devotion, fasting, and vibrant festivities. Women dress in red, sing traditional songs, dance in temple courtyards, and pray for marital bliss and family well-being, making it a beautiful expression of faith and sisterhood.
Traditional Summer Cuisine in Nepal
Nepal’s summer cuisine is designed to keep the body cool and energised. Some of the must-try seasonal dishes include:
1. Dahi Chiura (Beaten Rice with Curd) - A staple dish during Asar 15, Dahi Chiura is a refreshing and nutritious meal combining beaten rice with creamy curd. It is light, easy to digest, and perfect for the hot, humid weather.
2. Aloo Tama (Fermented Bamboo Shoot and Potato Curry) - A flavourful dish made with fermented bamboo shoots, potatoes, and black-eyed peas, Aloo Tama is slightly tangy and rich in probiotics, making it a great summer food.
3. Kheer – The Festive Rice Pudding - A creamy, sweet rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and cardamom, Kheer is a beloved dish prepared during special occasions and festivals, symbolising prosperity and good fortune.
4. Kwati (Mixed Bean Soup) - Traditionally consumed during the monsoon, Kwati is a protein-rich soup made from sprouted beans. It is known for boosting immunity and providing warmth during the rainy season.
5. Ghonghi (Snail Curry) - A speciality of the Tharu community, Ghonghi is a protein-rich snail curry enjoyed mainly in the Terai region during the monsoon. It is served with rice and has a distinct, earthy flavour.
6. Momos - Nepali momos stand apart with their delicate, hand-folded pleats and the subtle heat of Timur (Nepali Sichuan pepper) that lingers on the palate. Whether dipped in a warm, sesame-infused jhol achar or paired with the smoky tang of roasted tomato chutney, each bite carries the soul of Himalayan kitchens.
7. Chhyang (The Traditional Rice Beer) - A refreshing, mildly alcoholic rice beer, Chhyang is a popular summer drink among Indigenous communities, enjoyed for its cooling properties and cultural significance in rituals and gatherings.
